Port of Bilbao closes cruise season with another passenger record
The Port of Bilbao has concluded its 2026 cruise season with a new record in passenger traffic and vessel calls, strengthening its position as a cruise destination in northern Spain.
According to the Port Authority, the Getxo cruise terminal welcomed 104 cruise ships during the season, nine more than in 2025, while passenger numbers reached 233,236, representing an increase of 29% year on year.
The season began with the arrival of the first cruise ship on 25 February and concluded on 27 October with the final two calls. The results reflect continued activity across a range of cruise operators, with vessels of different sizes using the port’s facilities.
Cruise lines expand their presence in Bilbao
A total of 31 cruise lines called at the Port of Bilbao during 2026, including 11 operators making their first visits. MSC Cruises accounted for eight calls during the season.
The terminal accommodated ships ranging from 104 to 344 metres in length, demonstrating its ability to handle different vessel sizes and operational requirements.
Nine cruise ships remained overnight during the year, while three vessels began and ended their voyages at Getxo. These included Europa 2, Nautica and Maria, according to the Port Authority.
The terminal also managed several days involving simultaneous vessel calls. On six occasions, three cruise ships visited on the same day, while 30 August included embarkation and disembarkation operations for Nautica alongside other cruise activity.
British passengers represented approximately half of the total, followed by visitors from Germany and the United States.
Ivan Jimenez, President of the Port Authority of Bilbao, said the results confirmed the destination’s continued appeal to cruise operators and passengers.
He also highlighted the contribution of pilots, mooring crews, shipping agents, port personnel and security services in managing the season’s operations.
Shore power infrastructure planned for 2027
Alongside the increase in cruise traffic, the Port Authority highlighted the economic contribution of the sector and its plans to develop shore power infrastructure at the Getxo terminal.
The authority estimates that cruise activity generates an economic impact of approximately €34 million in the surrounding region.
It also expects onshore power supply facilities to become available by the end of 2027, allowing compatible cruise ships to connect to electricity from land while berthed.
Such infrastructure is intended to reduce the need for vessels to operate onboard generators during port stays, although the resulting emissions reductions will depend on factors including vessel compatibility, electricity supply and actual use of the facilities.
The Port Authority has presented the investment as part of its approach to developing cruise activity while addressing environmental considerations.
With another record season completed, Bilbao is continuing to develop its cruise operations alongside planned improvements to the infrastructure serving vessels at Getxo.
